Once a chess-player has learnt the basic rules of the game, the next
step is to study tactics. A knowledge of tactics will enable a
novice to start winning games by giving checkmate or taking his
opponent's pieces. As the player progresses, his tactical arsenal will
broaden and he will start to play sacrifices and combinations. Improving
your tactical ability is the most efficient way to win more games and
gain confidence at the chessboard.
Given the fundamental importance of chess tactics, there are
surprisingly few books that teach the subject in a systematic way.
Consequently, many players suffer from tactical blind-spots that plague
them throughout their career. The step-by-step approach used in this
book ensures that each concept is explained and tested before the next
one is introduced.
John Nunn is a renowned grandmaster noted for his devastating tactical
ability. In this book, he guides the reader to an understanding of key
tactical ideas such as the fork, pin, and discovered attack, and
discusses general ideas such as elimination and compulsion. No prior
knowledge is assumed apart from the basic rules of chess.
Throughout the book there are carefully graded exercises to test the
reader's understanding.
Dr John Nunn is a grandmaster from England. He has won four
individual gold medals and three team silver medals at Chess Olympiads.
In the Chess World Cup of 1988/9, he finished sixth overall, ahead of
several former World Champions. He is arguably the most highly acclaimed
chess writer in the world, with three of his books receiving the
prestigious British Chess Federation Book of the Year Award.
